Description
Looking for a warm, cheesy dip that’s perfect for game days, holiday parties, or casual get-togethers? Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip is the ultimate recipe! This oven-baked dip combines creamy cream cheese, tangy Parmesan, and mozzarella with hearty artichokes and spinach, seasoned with garlic and basil
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Dip:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 can (14 ounces) water-packed artichoke hearts, rinsed, drained, and chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- For Serving:
- Assorted crackers
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Cream Cheese: Provides a creamy, rich base.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, tangy flavor.
- Mayonnaise: Enhances creaminess and smoothness.
- Garlic: Brings savory, aromatic depth.
- Basil: Adds a subtle, herby note.
- Garlic Salt, Pepper: Enhance and balance flavors.
- Artichoke Hearts: Offer hearty, tangy texture.
- Spinach: Adds earthy, green flavor and nutrition.
- Mozzarella: Creates a bubbly, golden topping.
- Crackers: Crunchy vehicle for the dip.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cream Cheese: Swap with low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Parmesan: Replace with Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
- Mayonnaise: Use sour cream or plain yogurt.
- Garlic: Swap with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder.
- Basil: Use 1 tablespoon fresh basil or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano.
- Artichokes: Use marinated artichokes (drained) for extra flavor.
- Spinach: Swap with fresh spinach, cooked and chopped.
- Mozzarella: Replace with cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers; ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
- Spicy Dip: Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or 1 tablespoon hot sauce.
- Slow-Cooker Option: Mix ingredients, cook on Low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, then top with mozzarella and broil for 2-3 minutes.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Soften 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese (leave at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds).
- Grate 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese if not pre-grated.
- Mince 1 garlic clove.
- Measure 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Rinse, drain, and chop 1 can (14 ounces) water-packed artichoke hearts.
- Thaw 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, then squeeze dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Shred 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Grease a 9-inch pie plate or similar baking dish with cooking spray.
Tip: Squeeze spinach thoroughly to remove excess water; chop artichokes finely for even texture.
Step 2: Mix the Dip Base
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Mix with a spatula or hand mixer until smooth and well blended.
Tip: Ensure cream cheese is soft for easy mixing; blend thoroughly to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Add Artichokes and Spinach
- Stir In: Add the chopped artichoke hearts and squeezed-dry spinach to the cheese mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.
Tip: Fold gently to keep artichokes chunky; ensure spinach is evenly mixed to avoid clumps.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Transfer to Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into the greased 9-inch pie plate.
- Top with Mozzarella: Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, until the dip is bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
Tip: Check at 20 minutes; the top should be golden and the dip should bubble around the edges. Avoid overbaking to keep it creamy.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Let the dip cool for 5 minutes to set slightly.
- Serve Hot: Serve warm with assorted crackers arranged around the dish or in a separate bowl.
Tip: Use a small spatula for serving; provide a variety of crackers like butter, wheat, or rice crackers for texture.